By Stefan Coerts

The Catalan giants have opted not to accept the Argentine's suspension as they are keen to have him available for Saturday's game against Rayo Vallecano

Barcelona have announced on their official website that they have lodged an appeal with the Appeals Committee after Javier Mascherano was handed a one-match ban following his red card last weekend.

The Argentina international was dismissed in Barca's 5-4 La Liga win over Deportivo on Saturday after being booked twice by referee Jose Paradas.

The Blaugrana had presented an appeal against the referee’s post-match report, and now, after learning of the decision to suspend the Argentine for one match, they have lodged another appeal with the Appeals Committee.

The Catalans are keen to have Mascherano available for their next Liga fixture against Rayo Vallecano as centre-backs Carles Puyol and Gerard Pique are still sidelined with injury problems.

Mascherano, 28, has made 12 official appearances for Barcelona so far this season.